The Plot Unfolds At Library Story Play Program

By Steve Bonanno     

 “Zaniness” was the key word at the C.H. Booth Library on Friday, August 3, when published children’s author and enthusiastic entertainer Jason Edwards put on his Story Play program.

The program allowed children to be part of an interactive play. They made up the characters, plot, and dialogue.

“The kids don’t just sit and listen,” said Mr Edwards, before the program, “they help make up the story. They tell me what to do and I narrate, act, and fall down a lot, which they seem to really like.”

Mr Edwards proved this point as he ran head first into a wall, causing the children in the room to erupt with laughter.

Props are also an important part of Mr Edwards’ performance. He had a large red bag filled with various toys and costumes, including a whoopee cushion, which, he said, “works every time.” He explained that as his program has grown, so has his bag of props.

Mr Edwards started the program in 2007, and since then he has modified it based on feedback and various themes that libraries have requested.

Giving the short version of how his program began Mr Edwards said, “It all started with a toilet.”

He explained that his oldest daughter had a traumatic experience with a loud public toilet when she was young. After trying many different ways to help her get over her anxiety, Mr Edwards decided to create a fictional story for her.

This story became his first children’s book, Will Allen and the Great Monster Detective. He later produced the sequel, Will Allen and the Ring of Terror. The third book will be released this fall.

“In my wildest dreams I never imagined I’d be doing this for a living,” said Mr Edwards, “but I’m so lucky because I love doing this and getting to give children inspiration.”

Mr Edwards was loud, funny, and animated, even before the children showed up for the program. Once the program started he engaged the entire room, including the parents.

“The program is geared toward a younger audience, but I try to keep the adults amused,” said Mr Edwards. “By the end of the show even the shy kids get involved. The excitement to participate just becomes infectious.”

This was certainly the case, as Mr Edwards quickly had every child and parent in the room laughing and interacting.